Willow branch from Alaska

Spring is here, and the willow buds are beginning to show. I took a few pictures of willow branches, and found them most difficult to crop to my liking. This one looks a little better, but has some way to go. Used the Sigma lens with both the camera and lens on macro, and focused manually. The reddish background is from the willow trees lining the banks of the river across from where I stood, slightly enhanced with PSE "Auto contrast."

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Maybe the second one is better.

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The second one is better because its sharper, but I like the composition of the first better.

Thanks.

I like these shots of the willow buds. The details on the second shot is outstanding. Good colour and lighting.